Changing the public opinion of New Jersey, one bright spot at a time

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#21: Academy of Natural Sciences

One of my favorite things about Philadelphia is that no matter what type of history or science you’re into there, there’s a museum for you to learn at. If you’re into animals, then the Academy of Natural Science is where you should be, and where I most enjoy being!

This museum features animals from every class. Many are in the form of dioramas, placing animals that have been stuffed in a man-made scene similar to their natural habitat. The majority of the dioramas are from well over 50 years ago, but still in mint condition. There’s also an exhibit of live animals, all of which would not have been able to survive in the wild. From birds to reptiles, there’s something for everyone.

There’s also a butterfly exhibit, where you can walk through a butterfly filled hallway in the hopes one will land on you. Dinosaur Hall features large dinosaur skeletons, footprints of skeletons, and interactive activities. It’s impossible to visit this museum without learning a few things, no matter how many times you’ve been.

The dioramas are my favorite part, because it’s interesting to see the habitats of wild animals. My mom, a Philadelphia native, says she used to love the dioramas when she went on field trips in elementary school, and they haven’t changed at all!

If you’re ever in the New Jersey or Philadelphia area and just want to learn a little more about the animals with which we share the world, stop by the Academy of Natural Sciences—you’ll be glad you did.